Signal Apprentice, McCook, NE

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.

We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us!

Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits.

Mccook

Other Potential Locations:
Mccook, NE

Anticipated

Start Date:

04/06/2026

Number of Positions: 1

Salary Range:
Entry rate approx. $36.44/hr; avg annual pay 85K-95K with 3-5 years seniority.

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

Signal Apprentice is an apprenticeship for the positions of Signalman, Signal Maintainer and/or Shop Signalman.

This is a full-time (40 hrs/wk) position that is subject to on-call (24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. Shifts may vary (5–8 hrs/day followed by 2 days off; 4–10 hrs/day followed by 3 days off; 8–10 hrs/day followed by 6 days off).

Travel is required up to 90% outside of the headquarters location both on and off the seniority district. Travel may also be required to (and remain at) job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, in the designated seniority region. Travel costs will be covered according to the collective bargaining agreement when traveling outside of the seniority district.

Training is company‑paid on‑the‑job and classroom training and will include travel to the BNSF Training Center. Successful candidates will enter an apprenticeship program, pass progressive exams, and demonstrate field proficiency. Pay rates will increase with each completed step of qualification.

• Performing construction, reconditioning, installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing of wayside signal devices.
• Loading and unloading supplies, installing underground and overhead cables including trenching and hand digging, and working around or operating heavy machinery.
• Working on or around highway grade crossings, climbing signal masts, bridges, and ladders, and handling cables and wires for electrical connections.
• Using various power and non‑power tools, including shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, amp meters, computer‑based systems, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills, and power saws.
• Operating equipment (backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines).
• Daily work is conducted in a safety‑sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value of how we do business. Our employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. In addition, they must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in emergencies.

There is a 90‑day probationary period and relocation assistance is not available.

The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position. This is not an exhaustive list of the position's duties.

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF's assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above.
• Possess a valid state‑issued driver's license.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Ability to travel for extended periods of time (fly,…